Torpedo power plant



July 27 1926. 1,593,768

4 A. T. KASLEY TORPEDO POWER PLANT Filed June 1921 AZKaS/eg INVENTORQC/9am ATYORNEY Patented July 27, 1926.

srarss PAT ENT orricr.

. MEXANPE .KASL Y, E S TQ mmsrnvaurn, ss rat on, BY vrusunas SIGNMENTS,I THE OVERNMENT 91: NITED STATES AS BEIBESEKTEQ'BY SEQBE A BY. OF THENAVY- TOBPEDO POWER PLANT.

Application flled'l'une 23, 1921. Serialll'o. 4 79.70 8.

gThis invention relates to power plants and more particularly toself-contained powerplants adapted for use in the propulsion ofautomobile torpedoes, submarines andother self-propelled devices.

The invention has for an object the provision of a novel method andmeans for developing compound motive fluids,--by- Which largelyincreased volumes of high-pressure motive {fluid shall} be generated andsupplied for power purposes Without increasing the weight orsizefof theself-propelled device, asat present constructed, to which such powerplants are applied as, for example, i' utomobile torpedoes, to the endthat the propelling means thereof may be driven for a longer time andthe self-propelled device propelled to a greater distance and at anincreased speed. i

A further object of my invention is to provide a method and means bywhich the products of combustion, given off by a mixture containing asolid combustible and a solid supporter-of combustion soproportionedasto be in itself'not capable of sustaining combustion, and,in addition, a regulated quantity of. a fluid controller of combastionsupplied to the mixture containing a solid combustible and a solidsupporter of combustion, may be generated, controlled and utilized forsupplying a high-pressure "fluid'to a motor.

The invention has also for anobject the provision of a method and. meansfor con- -densing compound vapors exhausted from the motor and forre-eva-porating a portion of the condensed vapors, either by subjecting.the condensate to the heat'of' the highpiessure products of combustionor-to the surrounding the combustion chamber, or both, and mixing there-evaporated condensate with the high pressure products of combustionfor the purpose of increasing the volume and reducing the temperatureofthe compound motive fluid.

,These and other objects of my invention, which will be made moremanifest in tne further,- description, thereof, may be attained bytheemplo .ment of the a paratus hereiniftercleserilied andillustrated as:

companying drawing inwhich therFiglwe 1 is a diagrammatic sectional Viewoffln embodiment of my improved power plant shoWn a-sapplied toanautomobile torpedo.

Fi ure 2 is a detail sectional View .of:'-tl1e pump and associatedby=passesi F'gures 3 and 4 areenlarged detail diae grammatic views oftwo of thevalves and their thermostatic controls.

Figure 5 is an enlarged detail-diagram? matic view of the injector' forcarrying off the non-condensed exhaust gases.

In carrying out the invention when .ap:

plied to an automobile torpedo, Larrange in the central compartment ofthetorpedo one or more closed chambers charged-with :a

mixture containing a solid combustibleand e-ous, hereinaftertermed'fordistinction the fluidcflntr'oller of combustion. Theconstituents of the solid mixture and: the fluid controller ofcombustion therefor may be chosen from a Wide range of substances.

I have found that the following substances in substantially theproportions here given produce very satisfactory results: (1) potassiumchlorate, 128 parts; hydrated magnesium sulphate 20 parts;

magnesium 2 parts; the combustion of this mixture to be effected andcontrolled by regulated quantities of hydrogen sulphide; (2)- ammoniumnitrate, parts; magnesium nitrate '50 partsy carbon, '10 parts,the'combustion of the a-bove mixture being effected and cont-rolled byregulated quantities-of oxygen. *Thefirst of the above mixturesl havefound to be preferable since the chemical combination produces productsof combustion which almost completely m0 cendensab'le taining chamber.

bustion products, which result may be accomplished b any well knownpressure regulating mec anism, or by regulating the temperature of theliquid. The hydrogen sulphide gas constitutes the combustible materialof the reaction and unites with the potassium chlorate, the supporter ofcombustion, to produce water vapor and sulphur dioxide, which form themain body of motive fluid. The magnesium unites with oxygen of theotassium chlorate and this secondary reaction, due to its high heat ofcombustion, maintains a sufiiciently high temperature at the placeofflcombustion to ensure a continuous reaction of the gaseous h drogensulphide and potassium chlorate.

ydratedmagnesium sulphate is an inert material, in so far as thereaction is concerned, and serves to effect a slow progression oft-heplace of the combustive reaction from theupperto the lower portionof the tube in .whlch the combustion takes place. The products of.combustion are expanded in-a. suitable motor and are permitted topassfinto a condensing chamber suitably formed within the vehicle. Inthe case of an automobile torpedo, the low temperature of the mediumthrough which it is traveling may be utilized to efl'ect a condensationof the vapor. -A art of the condensed vapors are-forced y means of asuitable pumpfrom the lower portion of the condensing space and sprayedinto the path of the high temperature and high-pressure combustionroducts for the dual purpose offiicooling t ehightemperature products ofcombustion to prevent injury to the motor due to excessiveheat of thegases, and of increasing the volume of the motive gases by i the re-evaoration of the condensedfluid. The c ambers in which the combustionoccurs are preferably jacketed and means may be employed for conductingsome; ofthe condensed vapors to the jacket to be re-evaporated thereinand discharged therefrom to mingle with the main mass of motive fluid,Since the compound motive fluid contains only a small portion ofnoncondensable gases, a small vent for the uncondensed exhausted gasesis suflioient. The character of the discharged gases is such that theyare largely absorbed by the sea water andhence aitorpedo to which thispower plant is applied is not accompanied in its operation y thetell-tale Wake, common in torpedo manipulation. Moreover, it ispossible, by exhausting the air and uncondensed gases from within thetorpedo shell, to maintain a low absolute pressure within the torpedoduring operation, thus increasing the pressure drop of the motive fluidand lessening the fluid resistance of the rotating.

motor parts i j i Referrin' to the drawings for ajfclearer understandingof an embodimentof the inpartment 16 of the torpedo forward of thccasing 15 is provided forthe storage of 1 the fluid controller ofcombustion. Extending from the upper portion of. the compartment 16 is aconduit 17 which leads down; wardly beneath the several chambers 14 andcommunicates, therewith; byhmeans of branch connections 18. An .ofi'-take manifold 20 for the products of combustion extends abovethechambersl i and communicates with the interior thereof by meansofbranch; connections 21. complete combustion of the gases issuing fromthe chamber 14, a small quantity of the fluid controller ofcombustioniis fed from conduit 17 througha branch pipe 19 into the gasesflowing throu h theymanifold 20. Suitable means for controlling thesupply of fluid" controllers to the charm bers 14 may be provided. ,Asshown, in the forward end of the manifold. 20, is arranged areciprocable piston 22 which is sustained against pressure withinithemanifold by a spring 23. A pistonrod 24 secured to the piston22yisassociated with valve 25 in the conduit 17 in such .a manner that a risein pressure within the manifold 20 tends to close the valve 25. gatevalve 26, arranged to be drawn into open position upon the energizing ofa solenoid 27, may also be prov dedin the conduit 17.

In order to insure iis . The fluid controller of combustion ,ispreferably stored in the compartment 16 in the form ofa liquefied gas]and under a .considerable pressure. The opening of the gate valve 26relieves the pressure and causes portions of the liquid-gasto evaporate.It is introduction into the motor.

20 through a conduit 28, a considerable portion of which is coiledwithin the chamber 16. The products of combustion after traversing theconduit 28 are discharged into the "mainstream of motive fluid prior toits A valve 29 may be interposed in the conduit 28 and a suitablethermostat 80, immersed in the contents of the chamber 16, may beassociated with the valve 29 to regulate the extent of opening of thevalve and, consequently, the temperature of the liquid gas.

The motive fluid from the manifold 20 is discharged intoa chanmber 31from where it is delivered through the nozzle 32 to impart energy to aturbine motor 33. The gases from the motor 33 are preferably discharged,as through an opening 34, into the condensing space between the innerand outer shells of the torpedo.

The motor 33 is arranged to rotate a propeller shaft 35 to which aresecured propellers, not shown, as is the common practice in this art. Apump 36 is operatively associated with the shaft 35, as through gears37, and isarranged to pump condensed fluid from the lowermost portion ofthe condensing space through a pipe 89 and to deliver the condensedfluids under pressure through a pipe to the spray chamber 31. The pipe40 may extend into the passageway between the manifold 20 and the spraychamber 31 and discharge the condensed fluids in the direction of thepath of travel of the high temperature products of combustion, the endof the pipe 40 being preferably provided fwitlra spray nozzle41. Abranch 42 lead ing from the pipe 40 may also be provided to deliver someof the condensedfluid into the chamber- 15. As shown, the pipe 42extends around and among the chambers 14 and is provided withperforations 43 for spraying the condensec'h fluid against the heatedchambers 14. The walls of the chamber 14 may be of poorconducting material to maintain the ignition temperature of the chamber contents. Apipe 44 leads from the upper portion of the chamber 15 U and is arrangedto dlscharge vapors from -thechamber 15 into and in the direction of thepath of travel of the-products of comvbustion entering the spray chamber31.

That part of the condensedfluid sprayed against the chambers 14that isnot evaporated may be drawn off through pipe 39 to the intake ofthe pump36.

The temperature of the motive fluidpassing fromthe spray chamber 31through the nozzle 32 to" the prime mover may be regulatedbyvcontrolling the amountof condensed vapors delivered to the spraychamber through the spray nozzle 41:. Any. suitable 311188.115 foreffecting this result may be. em- ;.loyed. i As shown, a thermostat 45,located 1 in the sprayrhamhsr controls the opening.

of a valve 46 interposed in the pipe-40, the arrangement being such thatsufficient quantities of the condensed vapors are sprayed lect withinthe space between the shells,

which it is desirableto remove by any suitable form of vent device. Ihere show. a

coop ejector Fig. 5 comprising a hood .or

scoop 151 so disposed as to catch the wateras the torpedo travelsthrough the immersing medium, and to direct it through a delivery nozzle52 into a combining tube 53 from whence the water and any entrainedgases are discharged at 54 without thetorpedo. The inner end of thecombining tube. is formed integrally with the delivery nozzle and isprovided with perforations 55 for the.

admission of non-condensable gases to the ejector. An annular plate 56is held by a spring 57 against the perforated end of the combining tubeto prevent admission of sea fluid generated, as above .del water intothe torpedo. This" is shown, for

clearness of illustration, at the top. of the torpedo but shouldpreferably be placed lower so as to discharge liquid shouldanexcessaccumulate.

Ignition mixtures maybe provided for each of the chambers 14 as, forexample, cartridges 58 disposed in the upper portions of chambers 14.Suitable means of initiating combustion of the ignition mixtures and foropening valve 27, such as an electric circuit 59, are arranged to becomeeffective upon the operation of the usual trigger: 60,.in a manner wellknown in the art] f Having described an arrangement of. an apparatusembodying my invention, the operation thereof is as follows:Uponclaunching the torpedo, the trigger 60 is manipulated to initiatecombustion within the ignition cartridges 58 and at the same time'openthe valve 27 in the pipe 17. The fluidcontroller of combustion, as forexample,-hy-

drogen sulphide, passes in a gaseous state downwardly through the pipe17 and upwardly through the porous mass of mixed potassium cholorate,hydrated magnesium sulphate and magnesium within the several chambers14. The mixture in the upper portion. of the chambers having been raisedto a kindling temperature through, the ignition cartridges 58,combustion in the several chambers takes. place atthe top of thechambers and gradually works downwardlyin the chambers during thegeneration of the motive products combustion. .Tlieproducts i and: formtherein a motive fluid of high tomperature and high pressure. Completecomk ustion is ensured by the addition of a fur- ;ther quantity of thefluid controller of combustion into the gases issuing from the chambers14: and prior to their delivery to the motor 33. i a

The motivefluid is discharged through the motor 33 and is exhausted asthrough 34 into the condensing space between the inner and outer shellsof the torpedo. Being immersed in a cold medium, the vapors are readilycondensed in the space between the shells 10 and llandarel collected inthe lower portion of the condensing space. The non-condenable gases areexpelled by the ejector 50 and their nature is such that they arelargely absorbed in the sea water with the elimination of wake. Upon thestarting of the motorg33, the pump 37 is placed in operation and forcesthe condensed vapors from the lowerportion of the condenser through thespray nozzle 41 into the spray chamber 31 inthe direction of travel ofthe products of combustion from the chambers ltto the motor 33. It maybedesirable. to place in thebottomof the condenser a small quantity ofWater so that when the pump 37 is first started, a cooling spray may mixwith the first products of combustion from the chambers-14. Thecombustion within the chambers 14 raises the walls thereof to atheresidue is madeavailable for the generation of added motive fluid bydischarging downwardly about the chambers 14 sprays ofcondensed vaporThe heat of the tube readily"evaporates the liquid which is dischargedinto the spray chamber 31 to commingle with the motive pressure fluid.

The hydrogren sulphide is confined within the container 16 in liquidform under high pressure. As the pressure is relieved the hydrogensulphide vaporizes, and is conducted away through pipe 17. Heatsufficient to maintain a ready evaporation of the hydrogen sul hide issupplied by circulating a quantity of the high temperature gases fromthe manifold 20 through the coil 28 within the container 16, the flowthrough the coil being regulated by means of the thermostaticallycontrolled valve 29. The pressure of weass-natala. H a v the motiveproducts of combustion within the manifold 20 is maintained during theoperation ofthe torpedo at a substantially uniformly predeterminedpressure by regulating the rate of combustion within the severalchambers 14. This is effected by controlling the; degree of opening ofthe va1ve25, and hence the uantity of the fluid controller of combustionwhich passes through the pipe 17 to thecombustion chambers 14 inresponse to the pressure \within the manifold 20. a Q a The hightemperature products of combustion from the chamber l, the condensedvapors from the nozzle 41 and the reevaporated condensate from thechamber15 are delivered into the spray chamber 31 in which a comminglingof the fluids, an evaporation of the liquid spray, and a consequentreduction in temperature and in crease in volume of the mixed fluids iseffected. Proper proportions of the fluid constitutents entering thechamber 31 are attained byregulating thequantityof low temperaturefluids admitted to the spray chamber in accordance with the temperatureof the resulting mixture, the thermostatic valve 45 serving tocontrolthe amountof condensed vapors entering the spray chamher andmixing with the high temperature productsjof combustion. a 1' a WhileIhave shown my invention inbut one form, it will be obvious tothoseskilled in the art that it is not so limited butyis susceptible ofvarious otherjchanges and modifications without departing} from thespirit thereof and I desire, therefore, that only such limitations shallbehplaced there- 1 upon as are imposed by the PIIOI, art or as 1 i arespecifically set forth intthe appendecl claims. i VVhatIclaim is: i ,1'1. In an automobile tor edo, thecombination of a closed receptac echarged with a mixture containing a combustible andasupf porter ofcombustion, the mixture being so i proportioned as to be in itselfincapablerof sustaining combustion, a chamber containing a fluidcontroller of combustlon, and 'l means for admitting the fluidcontroller into the mixture containinga combustible and a combustionsupporter.

a 2. In an automobile tor edo, the combination of a closed receptac echarged with a mixture containing a combustible and ampporter ofcombustion, themixture being ,so proportionedasto bein itself incapableof sustaining combustion, a chamber containing a fluid controller ofcombustion,,means for admittingthe fluid controller tothe'mixture ofcombustible and combustion supporter, and means responsive to therapidity of the combustion action for regulating the admission of thefluid controller. a a

3. In a powerlant for self-propelled devices, the com ination of areceptacle charged with a mixture containin a solid combustible and asolid supporter o combustion, the mixturebeing so proportioned as to bein itself incapable ofsustain-ingcombustion, a chamber containing afluid controller of combustion, means for admitting the fluid controllerinto the mixture contaim sing a combustible and a combustion lupporter,off-=take into which the products offthe combustion are discharged fromthe receptacle, andmeans for delivering to said oif takc limitedquantities of the fluid controller to ensure a complete combustion.

4:. In apower-plant for self-propelled devices, the combination of areceptacle chargedwitha, mixture containing a solid combustible and asolid supporter of con1- bu'stion, the mixture being so proportionedasto'be in itself incapable ofsustaining coinbustion, a chambercontaining 'a flu-id controller of combustion, means for admittingthefluid controller into the mixture containing a combustible and acombustion sup,- porter, an ofitakeinto which the products of combustionare discharged from the receptable, and a conduit for leading a portionof theproducts of combustion from the ofi-take through the said chamberfor maintaining a" suitable temperature of the fluid controller ofcombustion.

Ina power plant for self-propelled devices, the combination of areceptacle charged with a miictu-re containing a solid combustible and asolid supporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportioned as tobe in itself incapable of sustaining "combustion, a chamber containing afluid controllerot combustion, means for admitting" the fluid controllerinto the mixture containing combustible and a combustion "supporter, anoff-take into which the products: of the combustion are. discharged fromthereceptacle, means for delivering to said otf take limited quantitiesof the fluid controller to: ensure a complete combustion, and a conduitfor leading aportionof the products of combustion from the ofl-takethrough the said chamber for maintaining a suitable temperature of thefluid controller of combustion;

6. In combination in a power plant for self-propelled devices, avertically disposed receptacle charged with a porous mixture containinga solid combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, the mixturebeing soproportione'd as to be in itself incapable of sustainingcombustion, a chamber containinga fluid controller of combustion, aconduit for admitting the fluid controller into the lower portion of thereceptacle, an ofl tak communicating with the upper portion of thereceptacle, the arrangement beingsuch that the controller and theproducts of combustion flow in the same'general direction within thereceptacle.

7. In combination with a power plant for self-propelled devices, aplurality of elongated receptacles, each charged with a porous mixturecontaining a solid combustible and a. solid supporter of combustion, themixture beingso' proportioned as to be in itself incapable of sustainingcombustion, a chamber containing a fluid controller of combustion, meansfor admitting regulated quantities ofthe fluid controller intojone endofeach receptacle,- ;and anfofl -itakemani;

S. In combination 1n a powenplantjtfor seltpropelled devices, aplurality; of elonk gated receptacles each charged with a porous mixturecontaining I a solid supporter of combustion, the mixturebeing soproportioned as to be in itseli incapable of sustaining combustion, achamber containing a fluid controllerof combustion, means for admittingregulated quantitiesof the fluid controller into one end of eachreceptacle, and an offtake manifold communicating with the other end ofeach receptacle for receiv ing the products of combustion from thereceptacles, a mixing chamber into which the products of combustion aredischarged, an expansible fluid motor receiving theproducts from themixing chamber,- a condenser intowhich the exhaust :Eromithe motor isdischarged, and means for delivering under pressure a portion of thecondensate from the condenser tosaid mixing chambenfi,

9. In combination in a poWerplant ior self-propelled devices, aplurality; of elongated receptacles each charged with a porous mixturecontaining a solid combustible and a solid supporter of, combustion,,the mixture being so proportioned asto benin itself incapable ofsustaining comb'u'st-iom; a casing enclosing thereceptacleafa chambercontaining a fluid controller of combustion, meansfor admittingregulated quantities of the fluid controller to oneend of each re;ceptacle, an off-takemanifold communicating with the other end ofeach'receptacle for receiving the products of combustion from thereceptacles, a mixing, chamber into which the products of combustion aredischarged, an expansible fluid motorreceiving the products from themixing chamber, a condenser intowhich the exhaust from the motor is discha'rged, means for delivering under pres sure a portion of thecondensate from the condenser M to the casing, and means 'for deliveringthe re-evaporatedcond'ensate from the casing to the mixing chamber. M aw 10. In combination in a power plant for self-propelled devices, aplurality, of recepta'cles each charged with aporous mixture containinga solid combustible and a ,Solid supporter of combustion, the mixture;being a so proportioned as to be in itself incapable of sustainingcombustion, a cas ng enclosing the receptacles, :a chamber containingafluid controller of combustion, meansfor admitting regulated quantitiesof the fluid controller into one, endof eachreceptaole, an off-takemanifold communicating with the other end of [each receptacle forreceiving the products of combustion from the receptacles, a mixingchamber into which the products of combustion are discharged, an"expansible fluid motor receiving the products from i the mixingchamber, a condenser into which the exhaust from the motor isdischarged, means for delivering under ressure a portion of thecondensate from t e condenser to the casing, means for delivering there-evaporated condensate from the casing to the mixing chamher, andmeans for delivering under pressure a portionrof the condensate from thecondenser to said mixing chamber.

11. In an automobile torpedo, the combination of an outer fluid-tightshell forthe tor edo, an inner shell spaced from the outer she I andforming a condenser therebetween, means for generating a high-pressurecondensable motive fluid; a motor in which the motive fluidis expanded,means to convey theexhausted motive fluid to the condenser, and :meansto deliver the condensed motive fluid directly into the high-pressuremotive fluid for cooling and increasing the volume of the motive-fluid 112. In an automobile torpedo, the combi nation of a generator, means forgenerating a' highpressure condensable vapor in said generator, a jacketsurroundin said generator, a motor in which the high-pressure va or isexpanded, means for condensing the ex austed' vapor, means for conveyingat least a portion of the condensed vapor to the jacket, and means fordelivering vapor generated in the jacket into the high-pressure vaporfrom the generator.

13. Inan automobile torpedo, the combination of an outer fluid tightshell for the tor edo, an inner shell spaced from the outer she I andforming a condenser therebetween, a generator, means for generating ahigh pressure condensable vapor in said generator,

a jacket surrounding said generator, a motor in which the high-pressurevapor is expanded, means to convey the i expanded vapor to thecondenser, means for delivering a portion of the condensedvapor'directly into the high-pressure vapor after its discharge from thegenerator, means for conveying at least a portion of the condensed vaporto the jacket, and meansfor delivering vapor generated in the jacketinto the high-pressure vapor from the generator, whereby the volume ofthe: motive fiuidjdelivered to the motor is increased and the compoundvapors are repeatedly passed through the motor;

14. A compound-condensable vapor gener ated by the chemical combinationof a mixture containing a solid combustible and a solid supporter ofcombustion, the mixture bein so proportioned as to be in itself incapa1c of sustaining a combustion of-the mixture, the chemical union beingeffected by the regulated admission tothe mixture of a fluid controllerof combustion.

15. In an automobile torpedo, the combination of a closed receptaclechar ed with a mixture containing a combustib e and a.

supporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportioned as to be initself incapable of sustaining combustion,a chamber adapted to containafluid controller of combustion, and meansfor admitting the fluidcontroller from said chamber into said rece taclefor producing anexothermic chemica reaction of the combustible, the combustion supporterand the fluid controller of combustion.

16. In an automobile tor edo,thecombination of a closedreceptac echarged with a mixture containing a combustible andia supporter ofcombustion, the mixture being so proportioned as to be in itselfincapable of sustaining combustion, a chamberiadapted to containafluidcontroller of combustion, means for admittin the fluid controllerinto thesaidreceptacle or producing anexothermic chemical reaction ofthe combustible, the combustion supporter, and the fluid controller ofcombustion, and means responsive to the rapidity of the chemicalreaction for regulating the rate of admission of the fluid controller. iI i 1 Y 1 17. In a power plant ,for self-propelled devices, thecombination of a receptacle chargedwitlr aamixture containingga solidcombustible and a solid supporter of combustion, the mixture bein soproportioned as to be in itself, incapa le of. sustaining combustion,means for heating said. mixture to a kindlingtemperature, a chambercontaining a fluid controller of. combustion,

means for admitting the fluid controller into the receptacle forsustaining combustion, an off-take into which the gaseous products ofthe combustion are discharged fromthere ceptacle, and meansforyideliverin to said off-take limited quantities of the uid controllerto insure a completecombustionof said gaseous products. i a

18. In a power plant for self-propelled devices, the combination of areceptacle charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible and asolid supporter--ofcombustion, the mixture being so proportioned as tobe in itselfincapable of sustaining combustion, means for heating saidmixture to a kindling temperature, achamber con.- taining a fluidcontroller of combustion, means for admitting the fluid controller intothe receptacle for'sustaining Jcombusmares "Isaiah and aselid supporterof coin bustion, the mixture being so proportioned ss' to be in itselfincapable'ofsustaining comb-ustiommeans associated with said receptaclefor'he'ating' the mixture to a kin dlihg temperature, a chambercontaining a 20.111" combination a power plant for selfiprope'lleddevices, a receptacle charged with aporo'us mixture containing a solidcombustible and a solid supporter of combustion, the mixture being soproportioned as to be in itself incapable of sustaining combustion,me'ans associated with the rece tacle for heating the mixture to akindhiig temperature, a chamber containing a fluid controller ofcombustion, a conduit for admitting the fluid controller intothe l'owerportion of the receptacle, an elf-take communicating with the upperportion of there'ceptacle, the arrangement being such that the fluidcontroller and the products of combustion flow in the same generaldirection within the receptacle.

21. In combination in a power plant for seif-propelled devices, areceptacle adapted tobe charged" with a porous mixture containing 21'solidcombustible and a solid sup porter of combustion, the mixture beingso proportioned as to be in itself incapable of sustaining combustion, acasing enclosing the receptacle, means associated with the rec eft'aiclefor heating the mixture to a kindhng temperature, a chamber containing afinfitdcontroll'er of combustion, means for admittingregul'ate'dquantities of the fluid controller into one end of the receptacle, anoii take manifold communicating with the other end of the receptacle forreceiving the gaseous products of combustion from the receptacle, amixing chamberinto which the products of combustion are discharged, anexpansible fiuid motor receiving the rodu'ct-sfro'm the mixing chamber,a 00110611561 into which the exhaust from the motor is discharged, meansfor delivering under pres- ;a portionoi'the condensate from thecondensertothe casing, means for deliver ing the re evaporatedcondensate from the ease to the mixing ichamber, andmeans er deliveringunderpressure' a portion of the condensat'ev fr-onr'the condenser tosaid chamber;

22. In an automobile torpedo, the combi nation of receptacle adapted tobe charged" with amix ture containing a solid combos tible and a solidsupporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportioned as to be initself incapable of supporting combustion, means associated with thereceptacle for heating the mixture to a kindling temperature, a chamberadapted to contain a: liquefied-gas, means for vaporizing the" liquefiedgas, and means for delivering a continuous flow of the vaporized gasinto the receptacle for sustaining combustion therein. 1

23*. In ana'utomobile torpedo,- thecorrib-ination of a receptacleadapted to be charged with a mixture containing a solid coin bus tibleand a solid supporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportionedasto-be in itself incapable of supporting combus tion, means associatedwith the receptacle for he'atin'gthemixture to a kindling teniper'ature, a chamber adapted to contain liquefied gas, means forvaporizing the liquefied gas, means for delivering a continuous flow ofthe vaporized gas into the re-] ceptacle for sustaining combustionthereini and means responsive to the pressure of the gaseous products ofcombustionfoncon trolling the flow of the vaporizedgas from the chamberto the receptacle.

24. In an automobile torpedo, the corn bt nation of a receptacleto'be'charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible-and a solidsupporter of combustion, the mix: ture being so proportioned asto'beirlitself incapable of supporting combustion, means associated with thereceptacle for heating 7 the mixture to a kindling temperature,chamberadapted to contain a liquefied gas, means for vaporizing theliquefied gas, means for delivering a continuous flowof the var porizedgas into the receptacle for sustaining combustion therein, said meansfonvapor i'zin'g the liquid-gas comprising a conduit for leading aportion of the proc'tucts ot i combustion from the ofif-talie throughthe said chamber to maintain a suitable vaporizing temperature therein,and means re-- sponsive to the temperatureot the liquid gas forcontrolling the amount oicombus tion' products passing through saidconduit! 25'. In an automobile torpedo, the 001m bination of areceptacle adapted to be charged with a mixture containing a solidcombustible and a solid supporter of com-1 bustion, the mixture being soproportioned as to be in itself incapable of supporting combustion,means associated with the r'e fff ceptacle for heating "the mixture;tofa; kin d-ling temperature, a chamber adapted to contain aliqueiiedgas, means fo'r vaporizing the liquefied'gas,means iordelivering a continuous flow of the vaporized'gas' into the receptacle forsustaining-combustion therein, means responsive to the pressure of thecontain a liquefied gas, means for vaporizing the liquefied gas, meansfor delivering a a continuous flow of the vaporized gas into thereceptacle for sustaining combustion there in, an off-take into whichthe gaseous products of combustion are delivered from the receptacle,and means for: delivering limited quantities of the vaporized gas tosaid olftake to ensure a complete combustion of the gaseous products; ia

27. In an automobile torpedo, the combination .of a receptacle adaptedto be charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible and a solidsupporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportioned as to beinitself incapable of supporting combustion, meansassociated with thereceptacle for heatingthe mixture to a kindling tem erature, a chamberadapted to contain a iquefied gas, means for vaporizingthe liquefiedgas, means for delivering a continuous flow of the vaporized gas intothe receptacle ,for sustainin combustion therein and an off-take into wich the gaseous products of combustion are delivered from thereceptacle, said means for vaporizing the liquid gas comprisinga conduitfor leading a portion of the products of combustion from the off-takethrough the said chamber to maintain a suitable vaporizing temperaturetherein.

28. In an automobile torpedo, the combination of a receptacle adapted tobe charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible and a solidsupporter of com bustion, the mixture being so, proportioned as to be initself incapable of supporting combustion, means associated with the receptacle for heating the mixture to a kindhng temperature, a chamberadapted to contain a liquefied gas, means for vaporizing the liquefiedgas, means for delivering a continuous flow of the vaporized gas intothe receptacle for sustaining combustion there in, an ofi-take intowhich the gaseous products of combustion are delivered from thereceptacle," said means for vaporizing the liquid gas comprising aconduit for leading a portionof the products of combustion from theoff-take through the said asto be in charged with a mixture containingasolid v I combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, themixturebeing so proportioned itself incapable of supporting combustion,means associated with the receptacle for heating the mixturetoafkindling temperature, a chamber adapted to contain a liquefied gas,means for vaporizing the liquefied gas, means, for delivering acontinuous flow of the vaporized gasto the receptacle forsustainingcombustion therein, an oil-take into which the gaseousproductsof combustion are delivered fromv the' receptacle, and meansfondelivering limited quantities of the vaporized gas to said ofitalreto ensure a complete combustionbf the gaseous products, said means forva orizing the liquid-gas comprising" a con uit for leading a portion ofthe products of com-- bustion from the olfQtake through the said chamberto maintain a suitable vaporizing" it temperature therein. i a 30. In anautomobile torpedo, the com bination of a receptacle adapted to becharged with a mixture containinga solid combustible and a solidsupporterof com busticn, the mixture being so proportioned as to be initself incapable of supporting com-I bustion, means associated with thereceptacle for heating the mixture to a 'kindlingttemperatureda chamberadaptedto" contain a liquefied gas, means 'for vaporizing {the liquefiedgas, means for deliveringa continuousfiow ofthe vaporous, as intoitheires ceptacle for sustaining com ustion therein, an off-take intowhich the gaseous products of combustionare deliveredfromtheireceptacle, a motor for utilizing the energy of the combustionproducts for the propulsion of the torpedo, and a condenser into [whichthe exhaustvfrom the motor isdischarged.

31.; In an automobile torpedopthecombh 110,

nation of a receptacleadapted to becharged with a mixture containing asolid combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, the mixturebeingso proportioned asto be in itself incapable of supporting;combustion,

means associated with the receptaclej ior heatinghthc mixture to akindling tempera; time, a chamber adapted to contain liquefied gas,means for vaporizing theliquefied gas, means for delivering a continuousvflowof the vaporized gas into the receptacle for sustaining combustiontherein, an, oil-take into which the gaseous roducts of combustion aredelivered from t e receptacle, a mix ing chamber receiving thecombustion prod;

ucts from therofl-take, a motorrecelving the products from the mixlngchamber, a condenser lnto which the exhaust from the motor isdischarged, and means for delivering under pressure a portion of thecondensate from the condenser to said mixing chamber.

132. in an automobile torpedo, the combination of receptacle adapted tobe charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible and a solid fpertcr of combustion, the mixture being so roportioned as to be initself inca able oi supporting combustion, a casing enc osing thereceptacle, means associated witlrthe, receptacle for eating the mixtureto a kindling temperature, a chamber adapted to contain a liquefied gas,means for vaporizing the liquefied gas, means for dehvering a cont1nuousflow of the vaporized gas into the receptacle for sustaining combustlontherein, an oil-take into which the gaseous products I of combustion aredelivered from the receptacle, a mixing chamber receivin the combustionproducts from the oil-ta e, a motor receiving the products from themixing chamber, a condenser into which the exhaust from the motor isdischarged means for delivering under pressure a portion of thecondensate "from the condenser to the mixing chamber, and anotherportion of the condensate to the casing, and means for delivering therc-evaporated condensate from the casing to the mixing chamber.

33. In an automobile torpedo, the combination of a receptacle adapted tobe charged with a mixture containing a solid combustible and a solidsupporter of com bustion, the mixture being so proportioned as to be initself incapable of supporting combustion, a casing enclosin v therecep-' tacle, means associated with tie receptacle for heating themixture to a kindling temperature, a chamber adapted to contain aliquefied gas, means for vaporizing the liquefied gas, means tordelivering a continuous flow oi the vaporized gas into the receptaclefor sustaining combustion therein, an offtake intowhich the gaseousproducts of combustion are delivered from the receptacle, a mixingchamber receiving the combustion products from the oil-take, a motorreceiv ing the products from the mixing chamber, a condenser into whichthe exhaust from the motor is discharged, means for delivering underpressure a portion of the condensate "rom the condenser to the mixingchamber, and another portion of the condensate to the casing, means fordelivering the re-evapo rated condensate from the casing to the mix tingchamber, and means responsive to the temperature of the mixed fluids inthe mixing chamber for controlling the amount of condensate deliveredthereto.

3a. In an automobile torpedo in which theinterior oi the torpedo is tobe maintained in operation at a lower pressure than the surroundingwater, the combination with the torpedo shell of a scoop ejector havingmeans for utilizing the motion of the torpedo for causing a portion ofthe surround, ing water to ease through the ejector so as to entrain anto discharge at least a portion of the fluid contents of the torpedo. I

35. In an automobile torpedo in which the interior of the torpedo is tobe maintained in operation at a lowerpressure than the surroundingwater, the combination with the torpedo shell of an ejector arranged toentrain and discharge at least a portion of the fluid contents of thetorpedo, a scoo extending outward from the shell to catcii a portion ofthe surrounding water and direct the same into the ejector, means as-'sociated with the ejector for preventing the surrounding water fromentering the interior of the torpedo. V

36. In a pressure generator, a combustion chamber, a solid mixturetherein containing a substance from which oxygen is readily liberated,means for deliveringto the combustion chamber a gaseous combustible, andmeans for supplying initial heat for promoting the chemical reaction inthe combustion chamber,

37. In a pressure generator, a combustion chamber, a solid mixturethereincontaining a combustible and a substance from which oxygen isreadily liberated, a chamber con raining a combustible in the form of aliquefied gas, means for vaporizing the liquefied gas, means fordelivering the vaporized gas to the combustion chamber, and means forsupplying initial heat for promoting the 1ghemical reaction in thecombustion cham- 38. In the art of propelling an automobile torpedo, inwhich an expansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustion of amixture containing a solid combustible and a solid supporter ofcombustion, the mix ture being so proportioned as to be in itselfincapable of sustaining combustion, the combustion being efiectedandcontrolled by continuously adding to the mixture a gas eous fluidevolved from a liquidgas stored under pressure, the method whichcomprises heating the mixture to a kindling temperature, vaporizing theliquid gas, and bringing the vaporized gas into contact with the mixtureto effect combustion and a consequent generation of high-pressuregaseous products of combustion. c

39, In the art of propelling an automo bile torpedo, in which anexpansible pressure fluidis generated by the combustion of a mixturecontaining a solid combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, themixture being so proportioned as to be in itself incapable 0tsustaining, combustion, the combustion beingeffected. and controlled bycontinuously adding to the mixture a gaseous fluid evolved from aliquid-gas stored under pressure, the method which comprises heating themixture to a kindling temperature, vaporizing the liquicbgas, bringingthe vaporized gas into contact with the mixture to effect combustion anda consequent generation of high-pressure gaseous products of combustion,and controlling the rate at which the vaporized gas is broughtintogcontact with the mixture in response to the rapidity of thecombustionaction.

40. In the art of propellingan automobile torpedoin which an expansiblepressure fluid is generated by the combustion of a mixture containing asolid combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, the mixture beingso proportioned as to be in,itself incapable of sustaining combustion,the combustion being effected and controlled by continuously adding tothe 'mixture a gaseous fluid evolved from a liquid-gas stored underpressure, the method which comprises heating the mixture to a kindlingtemperature, vaporizing the liquid-gas, bringing the vaporized gas intocontact with themixture to effect combustion and a consequent generationof high-pressure gaseous products of combustion, and controlling therate at which the vaporized gas is brought into contact with] themixture in response to the pressure of the gaseous products ofcombust-ion. i i

41. In the artof propelling an automobile torpedo inwhich an expansiblepressure fiuidis generated by the combustion of a mixture containing asolid combustibleand a solid supporter of combustion, the mixture beingso proportionedas to be in itself incapable of sustaining combustion,the combustion being effected and controllcdby continuously adding tothe mixture a gaseous fluid evolved from a liquid-gas stored underpressure, the method which comprises heating the mixture to a kindlingtemperature, vaporizing the liquitl-gas by relieving the pressurethereon, heating the liquid-gas to maintain a predetermined temperatureof theliquid-gas and a corresponding pressure of the gasesevolvedtherefrom, and bringing the vaporized gas into contact with the mixtureto efl ect combustion and a conseproducts ofcombustion. v r

42. In the art of propelling an automobile torpedo in which anexpansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustionof a mixturecontaining a solid combustible and a solid supporter of combustion, themixture being so proportioned as to be-in itself incapable of sustainingcombustion, the combustion being eifected and controlled by continuouslyadding to the mixture a gaseous fluidevolved from a liquid-gas storedunder pressure, themethod which comprises heating the mixture to akindling temperature, vaporizing the -liquid-gas-by relievquentgeneration of high pressure gaseous,

mam

ing the pressure thereon, bringin the vaporized gas into contact withthe mixture to effect combustion and a consequent generation ofhigh-pressure gaseous products of combustion, and conveying regulatedquantities of the gaseous products of combustion into heat-exchangingrelation to the liquid-gas to maintain a predetermined temperaturethereof and a corresponding pressure of the gases evolved therefrom. i

43. In the art of propelling an automobile torpedo in which anexpansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustion of a mixturecontaining a solid combustible and a solid supporterof combustion, themixture being so proportioned as to be in itself incapable of sustainingcombustion, the combustion being effected and controlled by continuouslyaddingfto the mixture a gaseous fluid evolved from a liqliliid-gasstored the method w under pressure, ich comprises heating the mixture toa kindlingtemperature, vaporizing the liquid gas by relieving thepressure thereon, bringing the vaporized gas into contact with themixture to efiect combustion and a consequent generation ofhighqbressure gaseous products of combustion, and delivering in additionlimited quantities of the vaporized gas to the gaseous products toensure a complete combustion of the gaseous products.

44. In the art of propelling an automobile torpedo in which anexpansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustion of a mixturecontainingpotassium chlorate, hy drated magnesium sulphate and magnesiumin substantially the following proportions: potassium chlorate, 128parts; hydrated magnesium sulphate, 20 parts; magnesium 2 parts; thecombustion being reflected and controlled by continuously adding to themixture asuitable gaseous fluid evolved from a liquid-gasstored underpressure, the method which comprises heating the mixture to a kindlingtemperature, vaporizing the liquid-gas and bringing the vaporizedgasinto contact with the mixture to effect combustion and a consequentgeneration of h gh-pressure gaseous products of combustorpedo in whichan expansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustion of a mixturecontaining potassium chlorate, hydrated magnesium sulphate andmagnesium, the mixture being so proportioned as to be in itselfincapable of sustaining combustion, the combustion being efi'ected andcontrolled by continuously adding to the mixture asuitable gaseous fluidevolved from a liquid-gas stored under pressure, the method whichcomprises heating the mixture to a kindling temperature, vaporizing theliquidgas, and bringing the vaporized gas into contact-with the mixture"to'eflect combus- 11 45. In the art of propelling an automobile 5 tionand a consequent generation of highpressure aseous productsofcombustion.

46. In t e art of propelling an automobile torpedo in which anexpansible pressure fluid is generated by the combustion of a mixture.containing potassium chlorate, hydratecl magnesium sulphate andmagnesium, the mixture being so proportioned as to be in itselfincapable of sustaining combustion, the combustion being efl'ected andcontrolled by continuously adding to the mixture hydrogen sulphide gasevolved from liquefied hydrogen sulphide stored under pressure, themethod which comprises heating the mixture to a kindling temperature,vaporizing the liquefied hydrogen sulphide, bringing the vaporizedhydrogen sulphide into contact with the mixture to eflect combustion anda consequent generation of highpressure gaseous products of combustion.

47. In the art of generating a motive fluid for automobile torpedoes andthe like, the method which consists in subjecting a mixture containing acombustible and a supporter of combustion, the mixture being soproportioned as to be in itself incapable to sustain a combustion of themixture, to a kindling temperature; adding a fluid controller ofcombustion to the mixture to effect combustion; and withdrawing thegaseous products of combustion for use in a motor.

48. In the art of generating a motive fluid for automobile torpedoes andthe like, the method which consists in subjecting a mixture containing acombustible and a supporter of combustion, the mixture beingsoproportioned as to be incapable in itself to sustain a combustion ofthe mixture, to a kindling temperature; adding a fluid combustioncontroller to the mixture to effect combustion; regulating the quantityof fluid controller added; and withdrawing the gas eous products ofcombustion for use in a motor.

49. In the art of propelling automobile torpedoes and the like, themethod which consists in subjecting a mixture containing a combustibleand a supporter of combustion, the mixture being so proportioned as tobe incapable in itself to sustain a combustion of the mixture, to akindling temperature; adding a fluid combustion controller to themixture to effect combustion; expanding the gaseous combustion productsin a motor; and condensing the products exhausted from the motor.

50. In the art of propelling automobile torpedoes and the like, themethod which consists in subjecting a mixture containing a combustibleand a supporter of combustion,

the mixture being so proportioned as to be incapable in itself tosustain a combustion of the mixture, to a kindling temperature; adding afluid combustion controller to the mixture to effect combustion;expanding the gaseous combustion products in a motor; condensing theproducts exhausted from the motor; and returning at leasta part of thecondensed products to the gaseous combuster to the motor. a

51. In the art of generating a motive fluid for automobile torpedoes andthe like, the method which consists in adding regulated quantities of afluid controller of combustion to a mixture of potassium chlorate,hydrated magnesium sulphate and magnesium, in substantially thefollowing proportions: potassium chlorate, 128 parts; hydrated magnesiumsulphate, 20 parts; and magnesium, 2 parts; and withdrawing the gaseousproclucts of combustion for use in a motor.

52. In the art of generating a motor fluid tion products prior to thedeliveryot the lat;

for automobile torpedoes and the like, the

method which consists in adding regulated quantities of hydrogensulphide to a mixture of potassium chlorate, hydrated magnesium sulphateand magnesium, in substantially the followin proportions: potassiumhlorate, 128 parts; hydrated magnesium sulphate, 20 parts; and magnesium2 parts; and withdrawing the gaseous products of combustion forv use ina motor. I

53. The method of propelling torpedoes comprising the exothermicgeneration of a gaseous pressure fluid which is condensable orabsorbable in water; abstracting energy from the pressure fluid by asuitable propul sion prime mover; condensing the major portion of thefluid exhausted from the prime mover; conducting at least a portion ofthe condensate to the region of exothermic gas generation where it isre-vaporized and heat energy absorbed for subsequent use in the primemover; and leading the uncondensed portions of the exhausted fluid tothe sea; whereby the exhausted pressure fluid is either condensed withinthe torpedo or absorbed in the sea water.

54. The method of generating a pressure fluid which consists inchemically uniting a combustible gas and a solid material from whichoxygen is readily liberated, and in employing heat for initiating thereaction. a

55. The method of generating a pressure fluid which consists inchemically uniting a combustible gas and a solid substance containing alarge proportion of oxygen, and in employing heat for initiating thereaction. 7

56. The method of generating a pressure fluid which consists inchemically uniting a combustible gas and an oxygen bearing solid, and inemploying heat for initiating the reaction.

57. The method of generating a ressure fluid which consists in effectinga c emical reaction between a combustible gas, a com- Rural" COPYbustible solid and an oxygen bearing solid,

and in employing heat for initiating the re action. I n

58. The method of generating a pressure 5 fluid which consists ineffecting a chemical reaction between a combustible gas, a combustiblesolid and a solid from which oxygen nsgeves is readily libei ated, andinemploying heat for initiating combustion.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto it subscribed myjname this 2Othday of June, 1921. l i n w 1 ca

